Sports and sporting achievements is amongst the most important shared entertainments around the world. The physical and mental ability, skill and tenacity to conquer various sports often leaves many in awe and wonder; and for some onlookers, the winner is often referred to as their ‘hero’. Recently, Usain Bolt attended the release of his movie, I am Bolt, where he shares his journey, of the highs and lows in reaching his goal to many golds. In contrast, this week we are reminded of the reported cover-up of over 1,000 Russian athletes engaged in dope, to enhance their individual performance.
Incidentally, while this may be uncovered many years later, we must not forget those who came second or third or even those who were cheated out of an Olympic medal – for they were denied their moment of glory; a moment to soak in the adulation and appreciation of onlookers, appreciating the time taken in training and sticking through thick and thin to arrive at this moment.
Although no-one can be expected to spend all day and night with an athlete, it is expected that all athletes will operate within the rules of the game and anyone failing to do so may be identified. In this instance, it looks like the work of the World Anti-Doping Agency, who had the Russian athletes investigated – and this has paid off, with the uncovering of such a cover-up.
In Paul’s writings to Timothy, Paul speaks of dying in 2 Timothy 4: 7-8 stating he has fought the good fight, run the race, kept the faith and thus, he’s looking forward to receiving a crown of righteousness. There is the need to do things fair and right that will result in gaining an inheritance.
Usain Bolt says: The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a determination. Enhancing drugs is not what brings about results on a fair level playing field, but determination – hard training, staying focused, stick to the rules.
May we spend this week fighting fair – trusting God, having the confidence that God will bring us through.
